In just six hours, the volunteer group constructed a 2,500-square-foot playground from the ground up. It contains 14 components such as a triple racer slide, monorail and a cozy cocoon.

The outdoor zone gives 3,000 neighborhood kids have a safe place to enjoy the fresh air and exercise. Previously, the closest playground was across a busy arterial and nearly a mile away.

Landry kicked off the work party with his mom, Dietra Landry. Building a play space has a personal connection for Jarvis.

As a kid, he spent many hours playing football at a local park. It kept him off the streets and out of trouble, he said.

The playground was built in partnership with Landry, the city parks department, Middle River Terrace Neighborhood Association, Target and KaBOOM!, a national non-profit that provides play areas for kids.

Target's district team leader Alexandra Slaton said KaBOOM! met with residents in the neighborhood to gather their input on the playground's design last spring. It took another eight weeks to formalize the plans.